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Frequently mentioned in reviews: Oxford (24) time (12) great (12) beer (11) good (11) hidden (11) nice (11) atmosphere (11) Tavern (11) order (10)
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  • 4/5 C.G. L. 1 year ago on Google
    It was the cozy and silent place. They have several kinds of theme rooms. So you just choose and take a seat by yourself because every server is just waiting at the front for your coming with order. The meal and ale beer was good with the practical price.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Healings s. 3 months ago on Google • 212 reviews New
    Full of frames and paintings dated from 18th century Cozy, Classy place to enjoy festive meal with your family. Parking: cycle only We went by walk so can’t suggest the nearest paid one either. Restrooms: clean Seating available on ground and 1st floor.

  • 5/5 Morgan-Sean M. 2 years ago on Google
    I agree with most of the reviews this place is a hidden gem in Oxford. I was fortunate enough to come here on a gorgeous day for a pint and a pie. I was not disappointed. I had the steak and ale pie with chips along with a pint of the Reggie's turf (which was made after the owner's dog Reggie.) It hit the spot! I highly recommend having one of their pies if you stop by for a spot of lunch. They have a varied selection of other foods though I didn't try anything else after that pie. The place has a nice jovial ambiance with plenty of local color. The staff are very nice and helpful in narrowing down their menu. The loos were clean. If you're in Oxford and want to say you've been to a 12th century tavern this is the place to be.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Johann G. 4 months ago on Google • 111 reviews
    Great historic pub in Oxford. Many student memories made in this place, and I'm glad to see that it has not lost its Oxford charm since Greene King took over its ownership. A group of us revisited recently and had a nice meal. My steak and chips were decently priced and cooked nicely.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 pilotdane 7 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Enough can't be said about how this pub organically fits the space. Character oozes from every corner. Dark inside with low ceilings it's history is undeniable. It's busy but bigger than you think if you explore all the corners. Unfortunately, expect tour groups to be led right through but think of it as fresh meat for people watching. They have a broad selection of beers on tap. There is the usual selection of what I call "training" beers, the usual low alcohol, English tax avoiding stuff. But the selection is decently broad. Even in an off peak time the line at the bar can be long so don't wait to be empty before getting in line for another. The fish and chips were really delicious. Unfortunately, chasing down a server to get some vinegar was difficult enough at 3pm. I hate to think of it during a busy time. Still, a wonderful place to visit and a must see if you want to experience a truly old school pub with all it's charm and warmth.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ANNA E. 3 months ago on Google • 130 reviews New
    Only had a drink and sat outside, but it had a great atmosphere and the food looked good and smelled good! Beautiful authentic building and the toilets, though outside are warm and clean. I'd like to try a meal here next time. It was January when I went, and they were still serving mulled wine, very welcome on a cold winter's day when sitting outside!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 P B. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely bar with lots of outdoor space and tables. Quirky inside. Little bit tricky to find…down a secret alley opposite a big White House and turn left! Has been a Harry Potter cast favourite apparently which seems fair!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Iwona M. 2 months ago on Google • 126 reviews New
    It is such a famous place that it is a must to go there. The food looked delicious. We only had beer as the queue was really long, which means they were very busy. The beer was very interesting. I definitely would not call it common.

  • 4/5 Dai D. 2 years ago on Google
    A hidden gem 💎. A must visit if you’re visiting Oxford. Fits in very nicely after a 90 minute walking tour of the splendid historic city and colleges. Buzzy atmosphere, friendly young staff, good range of ales and ‘proper’ substantive pub food. My steak pie and mash early evening was ‘just the job’. Gets busy. Many a famous customer over the years.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel N. 3 months ago on Google • 89 reviews New
    Visiting the Turf Tavern was an extraordinary highlight of my time in England. Tucked away in the alleyways, just outside the old city walls of Oxford, this pub is not just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a journey through history. Dating back to 1381, the Turf Tavern has served as a cultural cornerstone, frequented by students and numerous famous personalities like Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Tony Blair, and even future Prime Ministers and Presidents. As I stepped through the narrow St Helen’s Passage, the ambiance of the pub immediately transported me back in time. The low ceilings and cozy nooks created an intimate atmosphere, perfect for savoring their famed mulled wine or a pint of Old Rosie. It was surreal to be in a place that has been a part of history far beyond what one can imagine, a place that has hosted legendary figures and been part of tales from setting cats alight during the plague to the former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke setting a Guinness World Record for beer drinking. The Turf Tavern is more than a pub; it’s a living tapestry of Oxford’s history. For anyone wanting to feel like they’re a part of this historical fabric, a visit to this hidden gem is an absolute must.

  • 5/5 Carver B. 1 year ago on Google
    Totally rate this place! Charming and vibrant! Excellent food with a wonderful app that allows you to buy and pay for your food on your phone. There were a TON of people her and we still got our food really quick… just walk in and find the first open table, download/use the app, and enjoy the tavern!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rapperliftsbars 7 months ago on Google
    This tavern eatery is located inside the small lane under the bridge in the photo. Walk inside the lane and you will reach the Tavern. It has indoor and outdoor seating. They have a QR code menu only. Add the items to cart and wait for your order. It seems this tavern is very popular. People were flocking in for beer and a relaxed meal. We ate chicken fingers, tuna sandwhich, beef burger and a coca cola. Everything was very tasteful including the sandwhich. The side salad was well made too even though its just greens. On a busy day, I suggest not to hold off a table since people wait for seating. Service will definitely be slow on a crowded day. Happy to know that it is dog friendly too.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 YT K. 8 months ago on Google
    A cozy must-visit place in Oxford. Food is delicious, although there are not so many items. Orders must be placed through app. Servers don't come to ask you what you want. Sometimes tavern staff don't know that clients left and you arrived. So, cleaning tables are sometimes neglected. Thatsxwhy I give 4 stars for service. However, overall, bringing food ordered is quite quick and staff are generally polite. In conclusion, I give 5 stars because I enjoyed my visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Alan D. 1 month ago on Google • 75 reviews New
    Stumbled on this hidden pub while walking in Oxford recently. A sign directs you up a narrow lane to an old tavern with a large outdoor terrace. Inside it's like stepping back in time, but mind your head on the low wooden beams. Enjoyed a pleasant pint here just sitting enjoying the decor and nice atmosphere. I would have liked some food, all the condiments with knives & forks were set nicely on my table along with a menu. Unfortunately I wasn't able to order from my table and instead was told to go to another section of the pub to order food. Alas the pub was quickly filling up with people, so I skipped the food for fear of losing my table. Apart from that this was a nice little pub.

  • 5/5 Ignacio C. 6 months ago on Google
    Amazing place, full of history. The beers are good, although some were not cold at all (and who likes that?). The service was great though, and the toilets super clean.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Yelyzaveta A. 8 months ago on Google
    We were very disappointed with the food at this restaurant. The potato pie was terrible, the meat inside is disgusting, and the mashed potatoes are dry, like they've been sitting on the table all day and were reheated at the end. The fish and chips were also absolutely not tasty, bland and not hot. I do not recommend this place for tourists! It was a disappointment! The sauce for the pie and potatoes was like water dyed brown. The head of cabbage, which was charred at the stake, was incomprehensible to me and also disgusting. In general, after the beautiful Oxford, this place was the most terrible.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robert M. C. 8 months ago on Google
    One of the oldest pubs I've ever been to. This one is historic! Beer is better than excellent, food is good. Since I am 6'4" (193cm) the warning "duck or grouse!" was very apt! Commiserating with a fellow sufferer, I wound up meeting a very nice couple and had a great Oxford conversation and a delightful evening. The patience of the staff is frequently tried, by tourists who don't know how to queue, but they mostly handle it well ;)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lena D. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place! Amazing atmosphere, it’s busy but not too loud and you can still talk and have a good time inside. The Butter Beer was a hit for my husband and I. We loved the chicken Kiev and the Korean burger too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jon M. 2 years ago on Google
    It's worth the hunt to find the pub, down and alley and between two buildings. Really great food. The old pub section was awesome to see. Don't stand up straight!! Very low ceilings!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan M. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are looking for a cozy spot in Oxford to enjoy a delicious meal and a pint of beer, the Turf Tavern is your perfect destination. We recently visited this hidden pub and was blown away by their delicious steak pie. To begin with, the atmosphere at the Turf Tavern is simply delightful. The pub is tucked away in a historic alley and has a warm and welcoming vibe. The low ceilings and wooden beams add to the charm and make for a cozy dining experience. Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the steak and ale pie. It was absolutely divine. The pastry was perfectly crispy and the filling was rich and flavorful. The filling was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth with every bite. The gravy was rich and savory which tied all the flavors together perfectly. It was the perfect comfort food. To top it all off, the service at the Turf Tavern was excellent. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They made us feel right at home and provided us with a wonderful experience. Overall, I highly recommend the Turf Tavern for their delicious food and cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional British meal with friends and family. Don't miss out on this hidden gem of Oxford!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nadine O. 1 year ago on Google
    This is the cutest pub in Oxford, if you’re ever there it is a must-see! Great food, great staff, the atmosphere is lovely and they have a back garden too (perfect for both winter and summer). We had their signature and chicken burgers which were massive (absolutely worth every penny) and the sticky toffee pudding. Would definitely go back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ammaarah 1 year ago on Google
    Was recommended this place by a friend and I'm so glad they did. Tucked away behind a hotel is this adorable pub with the best outdoor seating space. The staff were lovely and the food was fantastic. Really glad we chose this spot for our lunch and I will definitely be coming back the next time I'm in Oxford!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Will H. 5 months ago on Google
    Quaint and cozy, this pub is tucked away behind a narrow alley between two buildings. The alley is dimly lit, creating a secretive and inviting atmosphere, leading to the hidden gem of a pub. The mulled wine here is nice.

  • 4/5 Ron W. 7 months ago on Google
    Walking there through narrow alleys added to the experience. You then arrive at what they call hidden garden, basically a bumch of terraces. When we were there it was 23C and sunny so the atmosphere was super. Add to that a nice Korean chicken burger and a good beer and you've got a lovely late lunch. Only minus was the service. I had the feeling they were a bit overworked, we had to ask for someone to clean the table which was done reluctantly. Food was ready quite quickly.

  • 5/5 Katelyn S. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a real hidden gem. Very charming pub nestled in an Oxford back alley. Great service and great bar selection. The "off the beaten path" ambiance is pleasant like a hidden oasis. I would recommend a visit any time you visit Oxford. Cheers!

  • 5/5 Claire R. 1 year ago on Google
    Highly recommend a visit if you happen to be in Oxford. Great gluten free food and beer options. Both outdoor and indoor seating options. Ordered gluten free chicken, potatoes and veggies… delicious!!!

  • 4/5 McKay R. 4 months ago on Google • 27 reviews
    Fish and chips were pretty good but seemed a little over priced. Ambiance was great and I would come back for a beer! Would recommend even in the winter as they have heaters outside.

  • 5/5 Ivan T. 1 year ago on Google
    This 12th century pub found in the alleyways of central Oxford should be on the itinerary of any visitor to the city. Order at the front bar (mind your head on the low ceiling!) and then sit inside or a few outside areas. Many choices if drinks available including extra cold Guinness and 9+ real ales, and for HP fans, there's even Butter Beer (too 'hoppy' for my liking). There is also a large snack and proper food menu with ordering via QR code or just order at the bar. Turf Tavern is said to be the oldest pub in Oxford and is well worth going for that reason alone and also for the warm, friendly atmosphere.

  • 4/5 Adam P. 8 months ago on Google
    Two of us had lunch at Turf Tavern when visiting Oxford recently. It was very busy, but we were fortunate to grab an outdoor table as soon as we arrived. Food was served promptly and was very nice indeed. The barmaid wasn’t sure if the nachos were available when I placed my order as they were waiting on a delivery, so we shared the salt and pepper squid and halloumi fries instead. A great lunch in a very historic setting.

  • 5/5 Przemyslaw “Iron” B. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place for time out with friends. Hard to find,but only the first time ;) Great selection of drinks amd food. Plenty of space inside plus large beer gardens outside. You can feel the age of this place in the air and if you like history this is a must to visit during your stay in Oxford. Walking distance from city centre,right in the middle of old historic town.

  • 5/5 Megan B. 11 months ago on Google
    Very cool place. The oldest part has a ceiling so low that even I, at 5'5" felt I had to duck! Great food and friendly service in a really great setting.

  • 1/5 Sandel S. 11 months ago on Google
    Horrible experience, long wait for the food, long queue to order food as there was only one person taking good orders and one taking drinks orders. You can order online if you get reception to download their app, register, confirm registration and then try to order. Staff very rude and arguing that it’s a traditional bar so you should expect that kind of service. Pictures speaks for itself.

  • 5/5 Jean D. 9 months ago on Google
    The most unique hidden pub in Oxford ( or anywhere else). It's located through one of two narrow openings between buildings and can be hard to locate. Well worth the venture and effort! The pub itself is very charming with its low thick wood beaned ceilings and quirky indoor seating, and has a beautiful garden setting amongst the high walled perimeter. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Kiwis Fly the Coop N. 8 months ago on Google
    Make sure to follow the signs (Helen's Passage) to find your way down narrow alleyways to the delightful and historical Turf Tavern. If these walls could talk. We enjoyed a cold beer and cidar as well as Baked Camembert and fries. The merlot and beef gravey is also a must try. It gets busy soon after opening at 11 am, so I'd recommend getting there early. There are lots of different seating areas, inside and out, so there is plenty of room. Staff and publican were very friendly and accommodating. Would recommend a visit to soak up the history 👌.

  • 5/5 Jacqueline S. 11 months ago on Google
    You won’t be disappointed at this cozy and intimate pub in Oxford. Their bar is small but very efficient in making and taking orders. There are lots of tables further into the pub and past the bar where you order, and our food was simply exquisite. Everyone was incredibly happy with the taste of their meals and size of the portions. I’ll be coming back for that Pork Belly. Lots of outdoor space makes it a great place to visit when the weather is nice, and I appreciated the very clean bathrooms as well! Will be going back.

  • 5/5 Ben I. 8 months ago on Google
    Got the Steak and ale pie and cheese toastie. Both were delicious. Good chips. Grilled cabbage was nice and tender-crisp. Shockingly large space given where it’s situated down a small alley. Appreciated the half-pint option for draft. Service was quick.

  • 3/5 Lorenzo 1 year ago on Google
    Went there on a weekday for lunch while visiting oxford, food tasted great drinks were good as well would have been a higher stars if the food didn't take close to 2 hours to arrive, we might have left if it wasn't that we had paid already. They did apologize and offer us drinks on them which is why I'm giving them 3 stars. Hopefully it was a one time issue cause food was indeed great.


Call +44 1865 243235 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Parking
    • ✓️ Difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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